Ernest G. Gelpi

Ernest Gerard Gelpi, 64, loving father of two children and friend to all, passed away on Sunday, February 7, 2021. Ernie was born on February 6, 1957, in New Orleans and was a lifelong resident of Old Metairie. He was known for his thoughtful leadership, calm temperament, and kind spirit.

Ernie started his career in public accounting in 1980 and joined Kushner LaGraize, LLC, in 1986. He served as the firm’s managing partner for the past fourteen years, during which the firm was consistently recognized as one of the “Best Places to Work” and one of the top accounting firms. Ernie was also an active member and leader of CPAmerica and many other professional organizations.

He enjoyed his job, but he had a passion for cars and motorcycles. You could often find him taking his Porsche for a spin on the track or cruising the highway on his Harley Davidson. In fact, Ernie once proudly braved “The Dragon” in Deals Gap, North Carolina, famous for its 318 curves in an 11-mile stretch.

But most of all, Ernie loved spending time with his friends and family, whether hosting a weekly gathering, cooking dinner, enjoying long walks, or soaking in a sunset on vacation. Ernie’s life raced by as quickly as his cars did, but he loved it. While we wish we could have had more time with Ernie, we will never forget a moment that we shared with him.

Ernie was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Ernest Gelpi; mother, Helen Hermann Gelpi; and sister, Sharon Geralyn Gelpi. He is survived by his daughter, Jessica (Jim Henry); son, Jeffrey (Chloé Chetta); and longtime fiancée, Wendi W. Majeau, and her children.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral service at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 444 Metairie Road, on Friday, February 12, 2021. Visitation will begin at 11:30 AM followed by mass at 12:30 PM. Private interment will follow in Lake Lawn Park. In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Heart Association would be appreciated.